Tetons

New snow and strong westerly winds have created dangerous avalanche conditions. Slabs to 18 inches in depth on lee slopes could be easily triggered by backcountry travelers or run naturally. The hazard will increase with continued snow and winds. The new snow is resting on smooth crusts and weak, faceted snow. At low elevations isolated pockets of loose snow sloughs could be triggered in steep areas like ravines or road cuts. Careful snowpack evaluation and conservative decision-making will be essential today.

The general avalanche hazard is expected to be CONSIDERABLE in the Tetons Tuesday. Cold temperatures will reduce the chance of naturally triggered slides but slabs to 18 inches in depth could be triggered on a wide range of aspects, particularly on upper elevation slopes subject to continued wind loading. The newer snow rests on crusts and weak snow surfaces and continues to be loaded Monday evening. The general avalanche hazard will be MODERATE in the Togwotee Pass and Southwest Trails areas. Pockets of firm slabs to 16 inches in depth could be triggered by backcountry travelers on steep, lee slopes particularly near ridge crests.